Decorating Editor Frances Bailey advocates a return to graciousness with these thoughtful choices that are sure to delight any hostess.

Gift-giving rules of thumb It's always good manners to arrive with a gift in hand. As best you can, make it personal, something the recipient might not purchase for him- or herself. Choose an item inspired by a hobby or in a favorite color. (Handcrafted gifts can be a hit, too.) You don't need to splurge to demonstrate that you put some thought into the present.

Gifts that make your hostess's life easier are always appreciated. These exuberantly striped paper placemats and polka-dot napkins from The Elegant Egg Cup add panache to the table, yet can be tossed when the plates are cleared.

For the weekend, do something you don't usually do like have a tea party

Remind your host of the times you had, with thank-you cards featuring a drawing or photograph from your visit, which you can order at shutterfly.com. Punch up the envelope with real postage made from your favorite photo at stamps.com.

"The most memorable gift I ever received was like a little piece of home: a basket filled with local treats from my hometown in North Carolina," says Frances Bailey.

Arrive on her doorstep with this delightful fabric-covered box from SeaCloth, and you're sure to be invited back again. Heighten the anticipation by giving a gift within a gift. Inside the box, which is perfect for archiving photographs and letters, you might include a disposable camera or stationery. With packaging this pretty, there's no need for gift wrap!